ED advises police to file case against Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, Health Minister Veena George and Minister Riyas in CMRL pay‑off probe

New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has submitted a report urging the police to file a criminal case against three senior Kerala leaders – Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Health Minister Veena George and Minister Riyas – in connection with a alleged pay‑off linked to the Chennai Metro Rail (CMRL) contract. The ED’s recommendation follows a preliminary investigation that uncovered indications of financial irregularities and possible quid‑pro‑quo between the officials and private contractors involved in the project.

According to the ED, the evidence points to the three ministers receiving undisclosed benefits that could have influenced the award of contracts for the metro rail work. The agency has not disclosed the exact amount of the alleged kickbacks, but said the findings warrant a formal police inquiry.

Kerala's state government has not yet responded to the ED’s recommendation. The police are expected to review the report and decide on the next steps, which could include registering a First Information Report (FIR) and initiating a detailed investigation.

The case adds to a series of high‑profile investigations into alleged corruption in infrastructure projects across India, highlighting the federal agencies' focus on transparency and accountability in public procurement.